Columbia, SC Faces Tornado Watch as Severe Weather Looms

News Summary

Columbia, SC is under a tornado watch due to a powerful storm system affecting the region. The tornado watch includes multiple counties and is active until 1 p.m. today. Severe thunderstorm warnings have also been issued for areas including Columbia and Lexington. Residents are advised to prepare for severe thunderstorms expected between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m., and to stay informed about safety measures.

Columbia, SC Faces Tornado Watch as Severe Weather Looms

Residents of Columbia, South Carolina, look out! A tornado watch has been issued for your area and many surrounding counties as a powerful storm system rolls in. This watch came into effect early Sunday morning and will remain active until 1 p.m. today. Buckle up! The weather is about to get wild.

What Does the Tornado Watch Include?

The tornado watch doesn’t just cover Columbia — it stretches across several counties in the region. This includes Richland and Lexington counties, along with Kershaw, Newberry, Lee, Calhoun, Clarendon, Fairfield, Orangeburg, Saluda, and Sumter counties. Practically a good chunk of the state!

Severe Thunderstorm Warnings Issued

On top of the tornado watch, the National Weather Service has issued several severe thunderstorm warnings for various areas, including Columbia, Lexington, West Columbia, and Irmo. So what does that mean for you? If you live in Lexington or Irmo, keep your eyes peeled, as the warnings will be in effect until 9 a.m. For those in Columbia and West Columbia, you have a little longer — until 9:45 a.m. to stay vigilant.

When Is the Worst Weather Coming?

The most severe thunderstorms are expected to hit between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m., so make sure you’re prepared during that timeframe. The good news is that the severe weather is expected to ease up after 6 p.m., although some residual threats might linger into the afternoon. This is also when a lake wind advisory kicks in until 6 p.m., with expected winds of 10-15 mph and gusts reaching up to a brisk 30 mph. Watch out on the lake!

Potential Weather Hazards

With strong winds and possibly tornadoes, the risks are real. Damage could occur to trees, roofs, mobile homes, and outbuildings. It’s smart to be cautious as vehicles can also face hazards during these events. Winds might lead to downed power lines as well, causing outages in affected areas. The weather patterns indicate a whopping 100% chance of rain in Columbia, with expected precipitation of up to 2 inches. In some areas, it could be even higher.

What About the Rest of the Week?

Temperatures are expected to peak in the high 60s today, but don’t pack away those jackets just yet! New Year’s Eve will see a chilly low of 43 degrees, while New Year’s Day is projected to be cool but sunny, with a high of 59 degrees. Quite the weather rollercoaster to kick off 2024!

Prepare for the Worst

Now, for some important safety tips: locals are recommended to stay updated with weather alerts through various means. Have a NOAA Weather Radio handy, or make sure your cell phone is set to receive alerts. If severe warnings are issued, look for immediate shelter in a sturdy, windowless interior room.

The Road Ahead

As the tornado watch winds down later this afternoon, the severe weather risk is expected to shift towards the coastal regions. But keep your eyes peeled — additional severe systems may develop later in the week following this storm. It’s shaping up to be an interesting holiday weekend!

Stay safe, Columbia, and keep those umbrellas handy!